TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION FOR URBAN FLOOD DISASTER RISK REDUCTION IN KASARANI SUB-COUNTY, NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Purpose of study: This study assessed the effectiveness of technological innovation in urban flood disaster risk reduction in Kasarani Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, it examined the types of technological innovations used, their effectiveness in minimising flood impacts, community awareness of technological solutions, and challenges affecting their implementation in flood disaster risk management. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive research design using quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from 291 respondents through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and observation checklists. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS Version 28, while qualitative data were transcribed, coded thematically, and triangulated with quantitative findings. Findings: The findings established that early warning systems were the most widely used technological innovation (M = 4.18, SD = 0.74), followed by mobile-based alert platforms (M = 4.12, SD = 0.72) and GIS mapping technologies (M = 4.05, SD = 0.68). Early warning systems were also perceived as the most effective for timely flood notification, while social media supported real-time communication and GIS facilitated identification of flood-prone areas. Community awareness was generally moderate to high, although uptake varied across demographic groups. Major implementation challenges included unsupportive government policies and institutional frameworks (M = 4.36), limited funding (M = 4.22), poor internet connectivity and infrastructure (M = 4.10), limited access to digital devices, weak stakeholder coordination, and inadequate technical expertise. Conclusion: The study concludes that technological innovation has contributed positively to urban flood disaster risk reduction in Kasarani Sub-County, particularly through early warning, communication, and hazard mapping. However, its benefits remain constrained by institutional, financial, infrastructural, and social limitations. Strengthening policy support, sustainable funding, digital infrastructure, stakeholder coordination, and inclusive community training is therefore essential.